The Best Way to Clean a CPAP Machine

CPAP machines are great for helping people with obstructive sleep apnea allowing them to get restful sleep every night. However, all that moisture in the facial mask and attached tubing are a breeding ground for bacteria. To avoid breathing in harmful bacteria, you must make sure that you know how to clean your CPAP machine.

Healthy Sleeping Tips: Cleaning CPAP Machinery

Regularly cleaning CPAP machinery will ensure that dust, mold, and dangerous microbes are removed from the mask, tubing, and humidifier tub. In addition, this regular cleaning will help to ensure that you are not breathing in harmful dust and debris, which can cause coughs, congestion, and other issues. A regular cleaning routine will also help to ensure that your CPAP equipment remains functional for longer, saving you money and the disruption involved in sourcing a new machine. If you have a mask that’s suffering in quality due to lack of cleanliness replace it with CPAP equipment from our shop! Luckily, daily cleaning of a CPAP machine is a simple and straightforward process that you should be able to fit into your schedule without any trouble.

How Often Should You Be Cleaning CPAP Machinery?

Most experts and CPAP manufacturers recommend that you should be cleaning CPAP machinery each day. However, many people can’t keep a daily routine, so at the bare minimum, you should make sure your CPAP machine is cleaned weekly.

CPAP Machine Cleaning Guide

Before you get started, you will need to gather some cleaning equipment to clean each part of the CPAP machine properly.

Equipment for Cleaning CPAP Machinery

• Warm water that is drinking quality.
• A mild, unscented dish soap.
• White vinegar for cleaning the humidifier chamber.
• A clean towel that is not abrasive and will not leave fluff on your machine.
• A large enough tub, bucket, or sink to contain your CPAP tubing or hose.

Step 1 – Disassemble your CPAP Machine

Make sure that your machine is unplugged from the power source. If your device has a battery, follow the manufacturer’s instructions to disassemble the equipment. Then disconnect the air hose and tubing from your mask and the machine. You should also remove the water chamber from the humidifier, if applicable.

Step 2 – Cleaning Your CPAP Mask

Most CPAP masks contain three parts that can be disassembled for cleaning – the headgear, the frame, and the cushion. Separating these three pieces makes the cleaning and drying process more manageable. Wash each part with mild soap, and pay particular attention to the headgear and cushion, as these areas can quickly become stained by hair and face oils.

Step 3 – How to Clean CPAP Machine Air Tubes and Hoses

Clean the tubing and hoses with warm water and soap. Make sure to submerge the thing in a bucket or sink so that water flows through the whole interior of the tube. You should refer to the manufacturer’s instructions if you have a hose with electrical or heating parts.

Step 4 – Cleaning for a CPAP Machine Humidifier Chamber

Ensure the humidifier chamber is sanitized by filling it with warm water and white vinegar (1 part vinegar and 1 part warm water). Leave it to soak for a while so the vinegar can effectively clean.

Step 5 – Leave to Dry and Reassemble

Once you have washed each part, rinse them with soap-free water and leave them to dry. Check for any remaining soap bubbles and rinse thoroughly. Then set all the parts on the towel to air dry and hang up the hoses and tubing from a shower rail or doorway. Your last step is to carefully reassemble the parts of the machine once they are dry.

Cleaning CPAP machinery is not a complicated or time-consuming process; once you have done it a few times, you should find it easy and quick to do. Follow the steps above, and your equipment will be clean and safe to use for a long time.

Parkway Sleep Health Center

Are you getting restful sleep every night? If not, Parkway Sleep Health Center can help. Our professionals can find the source of your sleeping difficulties and recommend a treatment plan. If you already have CPAP equipment but you’re not comfortable sleeping with it, review our CPAP accessory shop! Contact us for an evaluation at 919-439-3463 and schedule an appointment, so we can help you have restful sleep.